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A £120 fine was imposed on Lindley of Ribblesdale Court, Chilwell. He admitted that at Beeston Town Hall on Foster Avenue, he sent a letter which conveyed a threat for the purpose of causing distress or anxiety.

Helen Rooks, mitigating, told the court: "The form was in a plastic wallet which would hopefully reduce the risk of any contamination.

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"There was no explicit threat. I don't think it has caused substantial distress.

"He is just very sorry he has reacted in this way," added Miss Rooks. Lindley had been out of trouble for seven years, the court heard.

District Judge Tim Spruce told him: "This was an ill thought out and distasteful episode here.

"But I am satisfied this was an impulsive act in stressful circumstances with a lot of things going on in your life.

"This was an isolated incident and it seems there was a limited risk of contamination. Immediately you have been remorseful, pleaded guilty straightaway, taken responsibility and kept yourself out of trouble for several years.

"But you have let yourself down," said the judge. Lindley replied: "Yes sir, I am deeply sorry." As well as the fine, he must pay £85 prosecution costs and £30 government tax. It will be deducted from his state benefits.

After the hearing, a Nottinghamshire Police spokesman said: "Malicious communications against any member of society is not acceptable and we won’t tolerate it in Nottinghamshire.”